Many users of modern smartphones are faced with the need to separate work and personal contacts, which requires having two active numbers on one device. The situation when you need to install a second Viber on Android with two SIMs is one of the most common tasks for owners of gadgets that support Dual SIM. Fortunately, the Android ecosystem offers many ways to solve this problem without having to carry two different phones with you.
In this article we will examine in detail all the available methods: from built-in system functions to using third-party software. You will learn how to properly configure cloning applications, what pitfalls exist when working with notifications and how to ensure stable operation of both messengers at the same time.
Built-in cloning capabilities on different shells
Most modern smartphone manufacturers have already built in a duplication function applications directly into the system, making the process as simple as possible. This option allows you to create an exact copy, which will work as an independent application with its own set of data and settings. On smartphones, this function is called Viber, which will work as an independent application with its own set of data and settings.
On smartphones Samsung this function is called Double messenger and is located in the settings section. On devices Xiaomi and Redmi you need to look for the item Application cloning in the application menu. Phone owners Huawei and Honor will find this opportunity called App Twin or Twin application.
Activation of the function usually occurs in one click: you simply select the Viber icon from the list of available apps, and the system automatically creates a second icon on the desktop. This icon is often marked with a special orange or blue icon so that you do not confuse it with the main application.
- 📱 On Samsung, go to
Settings → Additional features → Dual messenger. - 📱 On Xiaomi, go to
Settings → Applications → Cloning applications. - 📱 On Huawei, open
Settings → Applications → Twin application.
⚠️ Attention: In some older versions of Android shells, the cloning function may be disabled is not available for instant messengers that use specific encryption protocols, although this is rare for Viber.
Use of third-party cloning applications
If your smartphone does not have a built-in function duplication or it does not work correctly, specialized utilities from the Google Play Market come to the rescue. These apps create a virtual space inside the phone, where a copy of the software you need is launched.
The most popular solutions are Parallel Space, Dual Space and 2Accounts. The principle of their operation is to emulate a second Android environment, where the application is reinstalled and gains access to the network independently of the main system.
When you first launch such a cloner, you will need to grant it a number of permissions, including access to contacts and storage. This is necessary so that the second Viber can correctly read the phone book and save media files in a separate folder.
It is worth noting that the use of third-party cloners may consume more RAM and battery power than built-in system solutions. Therefore, on devices with less than 4 GB of RAM, it is recommended to monitor background processes.
To save battery power, in the settings of the cloner application, disable autostart and limit background activity for minor apps.
Official Viber application for business
The developers of the messenger itself have provided a situation where the user needs two accounts, and released a separate application - Viber for business. This is a legal and optimized way to have two Vibers on one phone without using “crutches” in the form of third-party apps.
The functionality of the business version is almost identical to the regular one, with the exception of several additional tools for managing clients that the average user does not need and does not interfere with. The main advantage is the stability of operation and the absence of problems with notifications.
To use this method, just go to the Google Play Market, find the application Viber for Business and install it next to the main Viber. When you start, you will enter the number of your second SIM card and go through the standard verification procedure.
This method is ideal for those who want to separate personal communications and work calls using the official developer tools. The system perceives these two applications as completely different apps, which eliminates version conflicts.
Using the official version of Viber for business is the most reliable way to ensure that you receive all security updates simultaneously with the main application.
Setting up notifications and separating contacts
After successfully installing the second instance of the messenger, it is critically important to configure notifications correctly so as not to miss an important call or message. By default, both applications may use the same sound, which creates confusion.
Go into the settings of each application separately. In the Notifications section, assign unique ringing and message sounds for each account. For example, for a personal number, set a melodic sound, and for a work one - a more strict signal.
It is also recommended to change the icon of the second application, if your Android shell allows it, or simply remember the visual difference (for example, the cloning icon). This will help you instantly understand which chat you are writing to.
| Parameter | Main Viber | Second Viber (Clone) |
|---|---|---|
| Notification sound | Standard Viber | Unique signal |
| Vibration signal | Long vibration | Short vibration |
| Icon color | Purple | Purple + label |
| Access to contacts | All contacts | Selected contacts |
Don't forget to check the battery settings for the second application. Often the system tries to “put to sleep” the cloned application to save energy, which is why messages may arrive with a delay.
Solving problems with receiving SMS for activation
One of the most common problems when setting up a second number is the inability to receive an SMS with a confirmation code. This may occur due to the fact that the SIM card is installed in a slot that is not a priority for receiving messages at the moment.
Make sure that the second SIM card is active and has a balance. In your phone settings, check which slot is assigned to mobile data and SMS by default. Sometimes temporarily swapping slots helps.
If the code does not arrive via SMS, try selecting the option Call me. The robot will dictate the code by voice, which often works even if there are problems with the delivery of text messages on congested networks.
⚠️ Attention: Do not ask for a verification code too often. After several unsuccessful attempts, the Viber security system may block the ability to register on this number for 24 hours.
What to do if the code arrives at the main number?
If you have forwarding enabled or both SIM cards are linked to one cloud messaging account, the code may not arrive there. Disable forwarding before registering.
Optimizing the operation of two accounts at the same time
The simultaneous operation of two active messengers creates an increased load on the processor and communication module of the smartphone. To prevent your device from slowing down, you need to properly manage background processes.
It is recommended to disable automatic downloading of media files in the second application if it is used less often. This will save traffic and memory space. Go to Settings → Media and uncheck the item Save to gallery.
It is also worth periodically clearing the cache of the second application, since cloners often accumulate a lot of temporary files. This can be done through the standard application management menu in the Android settings.
- 🚀 Disable auto-uploading of photos and videos in the second account.
- 🚀 Limit background data transfer for an inactive profile.
- 🚀 Regularly delete outdated voicemails messages.
Remember that having two active SIM cards in 4G/5G mode also increases power consumption. If you are in an area with poor signal reception, the battery will drain faster than usual.
☑️ Checking readiness for dual installation
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I use the same number in regular Viber and in a clone?
No, this is technically impossible. One phone number can only be active in one instance of the application at a time. When you try to register the same number in the second application, the first account will be automatically deauthorized.
Will my contacts from the main book be visible in the second Viber?
By default, the cloned application has access to the entire phone book. However, in the privacy settings of the second application, you can limit the visibility of contacts or synchronize only a certain group.
Does installing a second Viber affect the warranty of the smartphone?
No, using the built-in cloning functions or installing applications from the official Google Play store does not violate the manufacturer's warranty. This is normal operation of the device.
What happens if I delete the cloner application (for example, Parallel Space)?
If you used a third-party app to create a clone, then when you delete this app, the second Viber account will also be permanently deleted along with the entire correspondence history. Be sure to make a backup copy before deleting.
Is it possible to transfer correspondence history from an old phone to a second account?
Yes, when setting up the second Viber for the first time, the system will offer to restore the backup from Google Drive. The main thing is that a fresh copy is created on the old device exactly for the number you are registering.